Investing in Saudi Arabia: A comprehensive guide to the Kingdom’s legal and economic transformation

Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of an economic and legal transformation driven by its ambitious Vision 2030 goals. This guide by Hourani & Partners provides a detailed analysis of the Kingdom’s evolving legal landscape, offering valuable insights into its regulatory frameworks, corporate structures, and investment opportunities.

Key topics include the modernization of Saudi Arabia’s legal and tax system, integrating Sharia principles with statutory reforms to enhance predictability and transparency. The recently enacted Investment Law streamlines foreign direct investment (FDI) processes, while the Companies Law introduces flexible governance structures and shareholder rights to align with global best practices. The guide also explores the regulatory landscape governing mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, and employment law, offering practical solutions for businesses navigating these complexities.

Additionally, the report highlights significant developments in taxation, including the implementation of the Personal Data Protection Law, aimed at aligning Saudi Arabia’s data protection standards with international norms. It also examines the pivotal role of intellectual property protections and the newly established regional headquarters (RHQ) program in attracting multinational corporations.

Highlights of the guide include:

• A deep dive into Saudi Arabia’s new Investment Law, introducing a streamlined national registry and updated FDI frameworks.
• Insights into tax reforms, including updates on zakat, corporate income tax, and transfer pricing regulations.
• Analysis of the Companies Law, with its new corporate structures, shareholder agreements, and flexibility in governance.
• Overview of employment laws, including Saudisation policies and employee protections during mergers or acquisitions.
• Key updates on intellectual property rights and their impact on foreign investments.
• Exploration of major infrastructure projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Project, creating opportunities across tourism, technology, and energy sectors.
• An overview of the Personal Data Protection Law and its cross-border data transfer rules.
• Guidance on navigating the regulatory landscape for mergers and acquisitions, competition, and antitrust compliance.

Click here to view the full copy on the Chambers website.

From cutting-edge projects to tailored opportunities in technology, healthcare, and renewable energy, this resource serves as an essential guide for understanding Saudi Arabia’s unique business environment.

Hourani & Partners is proud to be featured as contributing firm for the Saudi Arabia chapter of the Chambers Global Practice Guide 2025 – Investing in Saudi Arabia. Expertly compiled by Zain Satardien, Head of Tax and International Trade in collaboration with Chadi Hourani, Managing Partner, and Hayel Hourani, Managing Principal, this publication is a must-read for entities looking to invest or expand in one of the most dynamic markets in the Middle East.

Please contact the authors directly and copy crm@houranipartners.com if you would like a full copy.